Veteran Carte Blanche presenter and journalist Derek Watts has died due to cancer, as confirmed by television channel M-Net on Tuesday.
NAIROBI, KENYA | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Veteran Carte Blanche presenter and journalist Derek Watts has succumbed to cancer, as confirmed by M-Net, the television channel, on Tuesday.
In a statement, M-Net conveyed that Watts, a core member of the investigative TV program since its inception in 1988, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by loved ones.
M-Net extended heartfelt condolences to his wife and children, emphasizing his lasting significance to the Carte Blanche family.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and children in this time of loss. He will forever hold a special place in the hearts and minds of his Carte Blanche family,” the statement reads.
”M-Net extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the late Derek Watts. We remember him as a dedicated investigative journalist and a longstanding presenter of Carte Blanche. His commitment to his work and his determination in the face of challenges were truly remarkable. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. May they find solace in the cherished memories they shared and may Derek’s legacy continue to inspire us all.”, it reads in full.
Last year, Watts received a skin cancer diagnosis; in June this year, he announced a work hiatus to prioritize his health, citing lung metastasis.
Earlier this year, he was urgently admitted to ICU due to a suspected stroke. Watts updated fans about his condition via a hospital bed photo, revealing the incident occurred in Hoedspruit and led to his transfer to Milpark Hospital’s ICU.
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“Looks scary, but collapsed with suspected stroke in Hoedspruit 14 days ago and dispatched to super-pro Milpark Hospital ICU,” Watts said.
Nomsa Philiso, the chief executive of general entertainment at MultiChoice, the parent company, commemorated Watts as an unwavering investigative journalist and longstanding Carte Blanche presenter.
Philiso offered condolences to Watts’ family, highlighting his resilience and dedication. Watts’ legacy, she added, would continue to inspire.
“His unwavering commitment to his work and his determination in the face of challenges were truly remarkable. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. May they find solace in the cherished memories they shared and may Derek’s legacy continue to inspire us all,” Philiso said.
Survived by his wife Belinda and children Tyrone and Kirstin, Watts’ legacy continues to inspire, leaving an indelible mark on journalism and broadcast.
M-Net extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the late Derek Watts. We remember him as a dedicated investigative journalist and a longstanding presenter of @carteblanchetv. His commitment to his work and his determination in the face of… pic.twitter.com/DkRJkSdJF4
— M-Net (@MNet) August 22, 2023
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